Foraying into the electric vehicle segment, Kia has launched the award-winning EV6 in India. Built on a dedicated electric-global modular platform (E-GMP), the EV6 marks the beginning of Kia’s electric vehicle journey in Indian market. The model is available in two trims and is priced at INR 59.95 lac for the base and INR 64.95 lac for the top-spec AWD variant.
Related: Kia EV6 Wins 2022 European Car of the Year Award
Having received 355 booking orders so far, Kia will sell the EV6 through 15 dealerships across 12 cities. The dealerships would be equipped with 150 kw fast chargers. Speaking at the launch, Kia India Managing Director and CEO Tae-Jin Park said the company will invest in scaling up its presence in the EV sector. Kia has already announced investment of around USD 22.22 billion in its business operations over the next 5 years. A part of this investment will be made in developing products that will be sold in India and in setting up the infrastructure. Park said:
“We are fully capable of manufacturing EVs for India. The company is evaluating various battery electric vehicles (BEVs) for the Indian market. Kia also plans to bring an India-centric EV by 2025.”
As part of its EV journey in India, Kia plans to introduce various body styles to cater to both mass market and premium segments. The company will offer futuristic and sustainable BEVs developed ground up to offer matchless in-cabin experience, long-range to reduce range anxiety. Park went on to add:
“Our EV announcement for the country which includes an India-centric BEV in RV body type to be launched in 2025, is a testament to our commitment towards India and our new-age Indian customers by providing them with a sheer electric performance in the future.”
The aggressive push from the Indian government towards a sustainable future of the country supports the company’s move to electric vehicles, an industry which is still at the nascent stage in the country. Commenting on EV6 launch, he said the product will be a gamechanger as its other products which are there in the country. “With its eco-friendly materials, advanced technology, and highly efficient electrified powertrain, the EV6 is not just another product but a demonstration of our technological prowess and capabilities”, noted Park.
The Kia EV6 can travel up to 528km in a full charge and can sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds. The vehicle can be charged from 10% to up to 80% in as little as 18 minutes using a 350KWh fast charger. It comes with an all-wheel drive (AWD) system (in select trims), sunroof, multiple drive modes, forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist and over 60 connected features.
Related: Kia EV6 Sets Guinness World Record
Globally, Kia plans to accelerate its EV transition, aiming to be the world’s leading EV maker with plans to expand its BEV line-up to 14 models by 2027. Furthermore, Kia aspires to sell 1.2 million BEVs by 2030. The South Korean automaker is targeting a 6.6% global EV market share and 25% share of its sales from eco-friendly vehicles by the end of 2025.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
